Four Oakland, California police officers die after shootings

Oakland, CALIFORNIA (BNO NEWS) – Four Oakland, California police officers were killed in the line of duty on Saturday in two separate shootings, officials tell BNO News.

Shortly before 9 p.m., California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger issued a statement saying four officers had lost their lives in the shootings. Minutes later, however, Oakland’s acting Police Chief Howard Jordan said the fourth officer had not died and was still in critical condition.

Asked about the conflicting information, a spokeswoman for Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger told BNO News that their information indicates four officers had died. About 40 minutes later, after the office had double-checked their information, they re-confirmed their death toll is accurate and that they wouldn’t be issuing a correction.

Calls from BNO News to the Oakland Police Department seeking a comment were not immediately returned. The statement from Gov. Schwarzenegger can be found below.

“This is a tragic day for law enforcement officers everywhere. All four officers dedicated their lives to public safety and selflessly worked to protect the people of Oakland. Maria and I join the Bay Area in remembering their service and honoring their sacrifice. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those lost, the Oakland Police Department and law enforcement officers throughout California during this difficult time.”